kid-grit for at-risk youth populations

Workshops for Transitioning Foster Youth and Homeless Young Careerists/College Students

kid-grit has developed a unique series of workshops dedicated to support our most vulnerable populations from ages 18-24 of youth coming out of the foster system and homeless youth. These workshops are a gentle exploration of ‘self’ and enter into the power of understanding how their story is filled with power and survival skills.

In these evidenced-based sessions, kid-grit offers customized topics focused on:

  • Self-Care
  • Wellness
  • Self-Perception
  • Resilience and Failure
  • Mindset
  • Career Preparation

Throughout this series of workshops, we help participants learn that their story is not a deficit, but an asset.

TESTIMONIAL:

“Thank you, kid-grit, for providing us with a relevant, effective and entertaining workshop. The transition age foster youth we work with opened up in ways that we do not usually see and left feeling informed and empowered. Thank you for being turn-key and delivering on your promise.” – Ruth Stalford, Director/Founder of Make Good

A Message from a Field Professional:

"Many individuals presenting with substance use issues come into my office with impoverished regulatory capacities, poor cognitive functioning, inability to focus, low self-esteem, and problems with interpersonal relationships. According to attachment theory and infant research these characteristics can be indicative of a range of early sub optimal attachment relationships with caregivers. It takes time and work for these individuals as adults to develop the capacity to self-regulate and to engage in healthy relationships, and usually happens over time within the context of community (Jordan, 2018). When I was introduced to kid-grit: THE BOOK, and subsequently the curriculum, I was struck by how the developmental approach embodied in the program was tantamount to attuned, mindful parenting. As children, many of my patients were not taught how to collaborate, make positive decisions, exert impulse control, and especially how to self-regulate. All of which are skills and activities modeled and explored within the Kid-grit philosophy. The methods and philosophy embodied in the Kid-grit program could be used in schools and communities as an intervention for kids already involved in problematic substance use as well as prevention for those at risk. We, as a society, need to pay more attention to our children in order to quell the intergenerational transmission of sub-optimal “being”. Kid-grit makes a profound contribution to this cause."

Creative Writing for Mental Wellness

Based on request for additional services regarding mental health, kid-grit in partnership with Maia Akiva has developed a series of creative writing workshops for every age group. Read on for more!

Creative Writing for Mental Wellness Facilitator Guide

  • Middle, High School, Post-Secondary and Adults
  • 20+ Hours of Writing Activities
  • Short and Long Form, Poetry, Metaphorical, Group and Individual Writing Activities
  • Requires Training

Research and Expected Outcomes/Goals:

  • Emotional Expression
  • Stress Reduction
  • Self-Reflection and Self-Awareness Improving General Well-Being
  • Increased Coping Skills
  • Improved Communication Skills
  • Building a Sense of Identity and Purpose
  • Builds a Sense of Empowerment
  • Adds to In-Classroom and External Social Connections
  • Opportunity for a Heathy Distraction and Relaxation
Maia Akiva is shown smiling with her hands pressed together.

Workshop Option A

Creative Writing for Mental Wellness

In this workshop (for adults and/or youth), participants will explore their emotions and experiences through creative writing exercises. By reflecting on thoughts and feelings, participants will develop a deeper understanding of their own mental health, emotional intelligence and well-being. Participants will also learn how creative writing can be utilized as a powerful tool for self-expression and self-discovery. 

When afraid to speak, or use our voice out loud, using writing prompts and exercises, including journaling, poetry, imagination and magical realism, individuals will explore their emotions and thoughts in a safe and expressive way. This can be a powerful tool for self-reflection, self- awareness, and personal growth.

This Creative Writing for Mental Wellness Workshop is a powerful and transformative experience that will help participants develop a deeper understanding of themselves, build social-emotional skills and connect with others in a meaningful way. We invite you to join us on this journey of self-discovery and growth!

Workshop Option B

Creative Script for Mental Wellness: The Trainer of Trainer Workshop

This training of trainer’s model is intended to engage educators and wellness lovers in experiencing first-hand what their students will experience. In the first portion of the training, participants will walk through the creative writing and healing activities themselves.* In the second portion of the training, participants will learn strategies, writing tips and how these exercises connect to emotional intelligence and wellness for youth suffering with low self-esteem, self-harm, trauma and anxiety related behaviors.

* All participants will receive a facilitator guide filled with over 20 hours of writing exercises!

School groups, youth serving organizations, teachers and staff and students may also request ongoing coaching. Just ask us!

All workshops are custom designed based on your community and needs.